Olympus E-P2 vs Panasonic FZ300

Lets examine more closely at the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic FZ300, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-P2 (12MP) and the FZ300 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and FZ300 (1/2.3") come with different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The E-P2 was manufactured 6 years earlier than the FZ300 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-P2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FZ300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go in to a complete comparison, below is a concise view of how the E-P2 grades vs the FZ300 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-P2 Gallery and Panasonic FZ300 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus E-P2 has exterior measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FZ300 has sizing of 132mm x 92mm x 117mm (5.2" x 3.6" x 4.6") along with a weight of 691 grams (1.52 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic FZ300 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are using at that moment. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the E-P2 and the FZ300.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the E-P2 and FZ300 is 86 and 59 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizes purely by checking specs. The pic below will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P2 and FZ300.

All in all, the two cameras have got the exact same resolution but different sensor sizes. The E-P2 has got the larger sensor which should make getting shallow DOF less difficult. The more aged E-P2 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.